Which degree is recommended: BSN or ADN?

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I'm just beginning my quest for a nursing degree at age 38. I'm interested in getting opinions on which degree program I should go for--BSN or ADN. I think I know the pros and cons of each, but I'd like to hear what you think...Thanks!

Hi RobertaN,
I can't tell you what program would be recommended for you. You would need to assess your personal circumstances including your motives, objective, and mission for pursuing nursing and working in the nursing profession. At 38, I would probably consider getting my BSN, because the adverse effects of bedside nursing practice, if you were planning to perform that activity, are occurring in a shorter span of time than when I entered nursing. I think that you would have a better chance of getting out of bedside nursing into an alternative setting quicker with a BSN if you felt you needed to do that. Your opportunities, I feel, are greater with a BSN. If you did not want to go back to school for another degree after the BSN, you could become certified in specialty areas or get a post baccalaureate certificate in an area. Continuing education is a must to maintain competency in a profession, and certification has been a big thing for the last several years. I think that this would give you an edge over a person with an ADN with the same speciality certifications, equal experience, skills, and abilities. In addition, large employers have increasingly placed greater emphasis on educational background in terms of promotion opportunities. Anymore, a BSN to them is a BS period. You need to realize that in the nursing profession, however, that education, by and large, does not impact pay unless you are an APN (nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist). So don't become frustrated when you find that you went to school for your BSN and are making the same as an ADN or diploma nurse and compete for the same jobs unless otherwise specified. We all take the same state boards and work under the same nurse practice act. Best wishes.

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[This message has been edited by Mijourney (edited September 14, 2000).]

I began nursing school at the age of 43, got my Associate's degree, and now I'm a senior in the BSN program. I have worked at the hospital for over a year, and I know that it's not what I want to do for the rest of my life. I think that the BSN will give me many more opportunities. I also believe that many employers are seeking the management skills that are learned in the BSN program.

Originally posted by RobertaN:I'm just beginning my quest for a nursing degree at age 38. I'm interested in getting opinions on which degree program I should go for--BSN or ADN. I think I know the pros and cons of each, but I'd like to hear what you think...Thanks!

The ad program will get you earning money faster, ie in the RN labor force. However in the long run the BSN or higher degree is definetly the way to go.